Preparing Your Block for Winter

With autumn approaching, now is a good time for leaseholders, Residents’ Management Companies and managing agents to make sure their buildings are ready for the colder, wetter months ahead.

A little preparation now can help prevent costly repairs and problems during the winter.

Check gutters, drains and roofs

Autumn leaves and heavy rain can quickly cause blocked gutters and drains. These should be checked and cleared, while roofs should be inspected for any obvious damage or areas where water could enter the building.

Check communal lighting

With darker evenings and mornings, it is important that communal lighting is working properly. Entrances, pathways, stairwells, car parks and other shared areas should be checked and faulty lights reported or repaired.

Prepare for cold weather

Consider whether the development has an adequate supply of grit or rock salt, particularly for entrances, paths, steps and ramps. Communal heating and other building services should also be checked and serviced where necessary.

Keep communal areas clear

Residents should be reminded that communal corridors, stairwells and service cupboards must not be used for personal storage. Keeping these areas clear is particularly important for fire safety and safe access during the winter months.

Look ahead

Winter is also a good time for Directors to review upcoming maintenance. Are there external repairs that should be completed before bad weather arrives? Are there larger projects that need planning for the spring?

Good block management is about being proactive rather than waiting for problems to occur.

At RDSE Block Management, we work closely with Directors and leaseholders to keep buildings properly maintained, compliant and prepared throughout the year.

If you are unhappy with the level of management your block currently receives, get in touch with RDSE to discuss how we could help.